Legal restrictions imposed after the fall of the Nazi regime are preventing the German military from legally targeting suspected Russian drones over its own territory, according to Politico. The German Armed Forces cannot simply shoot drones in domestic airspace due to the restrictions built into the postwar constitution, which explicitly prevents the military from taking a key role in internal security to avoid a repeat of Nazi-era tactics.
Recent weeks have seen officials in several Western nations accusing Russian aircraft and drones of violating EU airspace, describing the incidents as part of Moscow’s so-called ‘hybrid war.’ However, the Kremlin has denied these allegations, accusing the West of anti-Russia hysteria. As EU states discuss the creation of a ‘drone wall’ and loosening air engagement rules, Politico highlighted that Germany’s efforts are uniquely constrained by its ‘Nazi legacy.’
Under current law, the military is only able to shoot down drones over military bases, with the federal police given the right to do so, but lacking the means for efficient anti-drone warfare. The military can only offer administrative assistance, such as identifying drones or passing information to civilian agencies. Thomas Rowekamp, chair of the parliamentary Defense Committee, told Politico that legal reforms are necessary to grant the armed forces the authority to handle such threats.
However, changing the constitution could prove politically challenging, with Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s coalition facing a weaker majority in postwar history and potential resistance from parties such as the right-wing Alternative for Germany. Russia has accused the EU of reckless militarization, noting Germany’s deep involvement in the Ukraine conflict due to its support for Kiev.